Green Light Stump Remover Instructions

Increase the stump remover’s effectiveness by following the instructions on the label.

Tree stumps are more than an eyesore -- they can house hornets, snakes and other pests that pose a hazard to your children and pets. You can manually remove the stump by either digging or pulling it out of the ground. These methods tend to be labor-intensive or require heavy equipment. An easier option is to use chemicals -- such as Green Light Stump Remover -- to speed up the natural decaying process of the tree stump.

Green Light Stump Remover

Green Light Stump Remover is a ready-to-use chemical stump remover manufactured by the Green Light Company. Potassium nitrate, the active ingredient in Green Light Sump remover, is a key ingredient in several stump-removing products and helps speed up the decay process. Also known as saltpeter, potassium nitrate is used in gunpowder, fireworks, fertilizers, rocket propellants and food preservatives. Despite some of the more dangerous uses of potassium nitrate, Green Light Stump remover is safe and doesn’t pose any serious danger when used as directed.

Preparing the Stump

Chemical stump removers must be applied to freshly cut wood, so cutting an older stump may be necessary. Once you have a freshly cut stump, drill 1/2- to 1-inch holes every 2 to 4 inches across the top of the stump. Wear protective eyewear when you're drilling to prevent wood fragments and debris from getting in your eyes. The depth of the holes should measure about the length of the drill bill. On the sides of the stump, drill holes every 4 to 6 inches that measure about 1 inch deep. The holes on the side of the stump must be slanted downward so they connect with the holes drilled on the top.

Application

After you have prepared the stump, pour Green Light Stump Remover into each hole and add water to the holes. It will take about four to six months for the Green Light Stump Remover to decompose the tree stump. After the stump has decayed, you can more easily remove it.

Warnings

Green Light Stump Remover is not harmful to nearby plants and generally won’t damage grass or plants if a small amount spills on them. Green Light Stump Remover can be absorbed through the skin and is harmful if swallowed. Wear chemical-resistant rubber gloves and safety goggles to help protect your skin and eyes from the chemicals, which can cause irritation. Flush the skin and eyes with water for 15 to 20 minutes if the stump remover comes in contact with the area. If swallowed, immediately contact poison control and provide the information from the label of the Green Light Stump Remover.

About the Author

Marylee Gowans has written about gardening for both online and print publications. She attended the University of Akron, graduating with a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing. In 2009, she received master gardener certification from the Master Gardeners of Summit County, Ohio.